Kim Komando Daily Tech Update

About 20% of American adults get their news through social media. And with a public health scare — the coronavirus — dominating headlines, fake news is spreading like crazy. What rumors are floating around and what should you do if you see them? I've got the scoop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long gone are the days of believing you can use major social media platforms and keep your info private. But a new option on the market takes things even further — connecting you with other users using facial recognition software. Yes, it's as creepy as it sounds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apple and Google refuse to unlock the smartphones of criminals, so police are taking matters into their own hands. Learn how the NYPD is working to crack the encryption codes of iPhones and Android devices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So much of your information is available for anyone to find. Not just your phone number, address or Social Security number — I'm talking much more personal. You know exactly what I mean if you've taken one of those mail-order DNA tests. So why are these once-popular kits taking a nosedive? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter how impressive your resume, it doesn't matter if you can't get it into the right hands. And with companies using artificial intelligence to screen candidates, you need to know how to get past the bots. Don't make these silly mistakes that will curtail your search. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surveillance cameras are virtually everywhere, and government officials are reportedly worried they may be in the sky too. If you have a hobby drone, learn why its days might be numbered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wearables aren't just accessories like smart watches and fitness trackers anymore. A California startup has a prototype for augmented reality contacts, shown off at this year's CES in Las Vegas, that might blow all those failed smart glasses out of the water. Would you buy a pair? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We think of Big Tech in the abstract — huge companies that control vast amounts of data and make a shocking amount of money. But how powerful are they, really? The biggest names in tech are worth more than you might believe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A serious Windows 10 flaw has the National Security Agency sounding the alarm. The intelligence agency is urging users to update the operating system as soon as possible, due to a risky vulnerability that could affect 900 million devices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's not much sadder than the look in my dog Abby's eyes when I leave the house each morning. Most dog owners feel the same way, and tech companies are jumping in to help with content tailored for our furry friends. That's right — a podcast for pups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Equifax's 2017 data breach compromised the credit and personal data of millions of Americans. Now the settlement has been agree upon, and your window for making a claim is rapidly shrinking. If you were impacted, file your claim now. Here's how. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The federal government and big tech have long battled over balancing user privacy and law enforcement access. Now U.S. Attorney General William Barr is calling for Apple to unlock iPhones involved in a terrorist attack, and the question of backdoor access looms larger than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you replace your tech with the latest and greatest, what do you do with what you were using before? Stash it in a drawer? Pack it up to put in storage? It's time to bust out those old devices because they just might be worth big money. Can you guess how much a first generation iPod sells for? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CES, the annual tech trade show underway in Las Vegas, showcases the best of the best in the digital world. But there are always some misses in the bunch, too. Check out my list of CES 2020 fails, from a toilet paper delivery robot to a not-so-smart assistant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CES is a tech lovers paradise, and journalists and fans are going crazy over all the announcements and reveals. As always, cars, artificial intelligence and impressive new gadgets are stealing the show. I'll tell you about some of this year's standouts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know not to click untrustworthy links or open attachments from a source you don't recognize. But some crimes are sneakier, like this scam that allows someone to take over your cell phone account — and access all your private data — before you even realize what's going on. I'll tell you how to protect yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You have a bad experience with a product or business, so you tap out a quick review voicing your dissatisfaction. What could go wrong? More than you might think. Reviews are big business, and companies aren't shy about going after people who leave negative feedback. I'll tell you why you may want to think twice next time you want to share yours online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CES kicks off tomorrow in Las Vegas, with 4,000-plus exhibitors. We're in for some exciting new innovations in consumer tech, and it's not all TVs and computers. Here's what you can expect, from smarter cars to foldable gadgets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take a second to scroll through the photo gallery on your phone, tablet or computer. I'm willing to bet it's a mess. With a couple simple tips and a little time, though, you can make it easier to find your favorite shots. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder if the internet plan you choose really matters, aside from cost? It does, and I'll help you find the best one for you. Once you decide, it's important you're actually getting all the speed you pay for. I'll show you a quick way to check. (No tech expertise required.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It seems like there's a new data breach or hack around every corner, and cybercriminals are always finding clever new ways to get their hands on your info. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself this new year and beyond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new year is upon us, and it's time to set some resolutions. Make your digital life better with three simple ideas with big impact. First up, your inbox needs help. I've got a simple way to manage it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amazon’s Alexa-powered Echo smart spreaker was among the company’s bestsellers this past Christmas. Parents are asking if they should teach their children to say thank you and please when dealing with Alexa. What do you think? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Colleges are now tracking students on campus with reminders and class attendance. Is this helping or hindering students? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The presents are unwrapped, and the big day has passed. Let's look at the top items to buy right now — the day AFTER Christmas. I'll tell you where you can save some serious cash, from tech to decor. And don't forget next year's Christmas decorations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Christmas day across America and today, I want lay aside the consumerism and technology to express my thanks. Take a minute today and say thank you and Merry Christmas to special people in your life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever scroll through Facebook and feel stressed just trying to keep up? Everyone's having the perfect Christmas — or at least that's what it seems like. Social media could make an already stressful time of year even harder to deal with. Take my advice and put down your phone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christmas is nearly here, and the clock is ticking if you've still got shopping to do. Everyone loves unwrapping cool tech on Christmas morning. I've got a few suggestions for gadgets worth the money. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the last minute holiday rush is stressing you out, a meditation app might help you calm down. The market is packed with options, and they're raking in the bucks to relieve your stress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Viruses aren't just bugs that spam your computer or shut down your system anymore. Hackers employ sophisticated attacks that can bring your whole digital life crashing down. Are you making the mistake of thinking cybercriminals won't possibly come after you? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christmas is nearly here, and that means a whole new batch of sales — starting the day after Christmas. If you have your eye on any of these products, wait just a little longer to pull the trigger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sick of the constant barrage of targeted ads? You can't completely shut out advertisers online, but you thwart their spying efforts. I'll tell you the top three ways to get back some privacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Universal translators that let you connect with anyone aren't just a cool sci-fi trope. There's a real life version available for download now that interprets 44 languages in real-time. Find out how it works. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know internet-connected devices put your privacy at risk, but just how much? These smart gifts for kids give hackers an open invitation to chat with children and even track their location. I'll tell you exactly what to leave off your shopping list this Christmas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your holiday shopping is probably well underway, and your inbox is packed with receipts and shipping emails. This is a cybercriminal's dream. I'll tell you about a scam hitting inboxes this holiday season and what steps you can take to protect yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hundreds of big name companies are changing the way they hire: using an artificial intelligence algorithm to rank candidates. Are you in the market for a new job? Here's what this change means for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know smartwatches and fitness trackers collect info on your steps, your heart rate and other health factors. But have you considered what that data could mean in the wrong hands? If you're giving or receiving wearbable tech this holiday season, don't miss this warning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rideshare company Uber just released its first-ever safety report, revealing data on the number of crashes, deaths and sexual assaults reported during its rides in 2017 and 2018. The numbers are alarming, to say the least. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're traveling this holiday season, add this to your must-do list: Check your rental for hidden cameras. Learn how to spot tech that lets creeps watch your every move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It stands to reason that students who can't keep their eyes off their phones won't do as well in school as those who pay attention. But just how much of an impact does it make? You'll be surprised. Share this with a student in your life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you upgraded to a smart TV this Black Friday or Cyber Monday, don't miss this. The FBI warns your new television with all the bells and whistles also comes equipped with features that could bring hackers right into your home. Here's what you need to do to stay safe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Huge tech innovations have completely changed our lives in the past few decades, and there's a big one on the horizon. Streaming is no longer just an entertainment add-on. How big is it? Find out what analysts predict is coming for cable and satellite companies in 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fact or fiction: You should always unplug your electronics when not in use. The answer is simple, but the reason behind it is a little more complex given today's technology. I'll settle the debate once and for all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Nintendo Switch is the hottest tech gift this year. And trying to find one this weekend is going to be tricky. I've got your best bet for getting your hands on this popular gaming system. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you going to spend today relaxing with loved ones or are you ready to jump into the Black Friday madness? Deals are starting earlier than ever this year, and I'll tell you which retailers are hoping to capture enthusiastic shoppers starting at 6 a.m. Thanksgiving Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't fall for those mediocre Black Friday sales retailers are pushing in your face. I've got the inside scoop on what's really worth it this year. We're talking a 54" inch TV for less than $300 and a Chromebook for less than $100. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Friday isn't just a one-day sale anymore. The days around Thanksgiving are an entire shopping event, and you need some know-how to shop smart. I'll tell you the one day you can't miss if you're looking for the very best deals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ah, holiday shopping. You're finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones, scoring great deals on tech you've been waiting to buy and ... avoiding scammers? Don't do it alone. I've got 4 tips to help you stay safe as you're checking things off your Christmas list. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

X-rated content on the internet is nothing new. But it is being served up in a whole new way — and its producers have their fingers crossed you'll be willing to shell out $9 a month for it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Facebook-owned photo sharing platform Instagram is a great place to keep up with friends and family. But it's also a haven for predators looking to exploit children. If you have a daughter or granddaughter that uses Instagram, you need to listen to this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices